Jatavious Damailo French, a 20-year-old male, tragically lost his life to gun violence on New Year's Day, January 1, 2025, in Bay Minette, Alabama. The incident, which cut short the young man's life, was not a random act of violence but rather the culmination of an ongoing dispute. The events of that day unfolded in broad daylight on Pecan Street, where French was fatally shot.
The investigation into the shooting quickly pointed to two suspects, 18-year-old Armani Hooks and Kendrick
Johnson. Evidence suggested a history of conflict between French and the two teenagers, with altercations reportedly occurring the day before and even within hours of the fatal shooting. This ongoing animosity escalated tragically on New Year's Day, resulting in a violent confrontation.
Multiple weapons were believed to have been used in the attack, including 9mm handguns and a shotgun. Investigators recovered at least 19 shell casings from the scene, indicating the intensity of the assault. Despite the number of shots fired, it was a pellet from a shotgun that ultimately proved fatal for French. Hooks and Johnson were subsequently arrested and charged in connection with the murder. During legal proceedings, a judge set their bond at $200,000 each and bound the case over to a grand jury for further consideration.
